Farewell, Summer.

words by alex robertson

It’s that time of year again… Everyone is coupling up to nest as the mercury drops and the party season sadly comes to an end. Time to exchange the little summer dress for a pair of jeans, those havianas for a pair of uggies and that frozen margy for a mulled wine.

But maybe it doesn’t have to end so soon?

We’re not going to lie when we say the vibe definitely changes here in Bondi over the cooler months. The streets seem to get eerily quiet, but it doesn’t need to be so sad. Some of my favourite bars I frequent in Sydney over autumn and winter are right here in Bondi and after that scorching summer, it’s nice for a snuggly change.

So where are the best joints in Bondi to enjoy a cosy cocktail?

Luis Tans
Nestled in the little arcade between Gould Street and Campbell Parade is one of our Bondi favourites, Luis Tans. Perfect for all seasons but when it cools down there is no place you’d rather be. The South American/Asian fusion menu is the perfect match for their ever-changing cocktail menu. There’s one thing the boys from Luis Tans know how to do and that’s make a mean cocktail, perfectly suited to the weather outside. The booth style seating makes for an intimate setting that’s perfect for a cosy date.

Sweet baby karaage… Wash me down with a five dollar cerveza from 5 till 7 everyday! #happyhourbondi

A post shared by The House of Luis Tan (@luistans) on Feb 14, 2017 at 9:01pm PST

Speakeasy Bondi
When it comes to the cooler seasons smaller is definitely better. Teenie tiny bars usually create a more intimate vibe which is exactly what we’re after. Speakeasy is definitely on the cosy end of the scale and there’s absolutely no need for space when you have a tapas menu and wine list this good!

Bar 43
If you’re after something a bit more upbeat then this is your joint. Live music, burgers, tacos, yiros and their famous mulled wine in the winter – the secret family recipe comes all the way from the other side of the globe and damn, it’s tasty!

Bondi Hardware
Hardware is a Bondi local favourite for a Friday night cocktail and when winter comes around it’s the perfect place for a night out with the girls (or boys). With enough room to get a bit silly whilst remaining cosy and intimate. Their menu and cocktails list has just had a makeover and it’s looking as glam as ever.

Cheers! Get your friends to Bondi Hardware this weekend and try our new cocktail list, featuring the 'Garden Party' and the 'Young Cuban'. See you then! Photo: @thefdiaries #bondihardware #bondi #bondibeach #cheers #weekend #friday #friyay #celebrate #cocktails #sydneydrinks #sydneyrestaurants #thefdiaries #friends #party #fridaynight #sydneynightout

A post shared by @bondi_hardware on Mar 9, 2017 at 8:49pm PST

The Bondi bar scene is transforming so effortlessly into a winter wonderland this year, we may not even have a chance to miss summer!